Artist Ari Yarmish Merges Kabbalah and Daily Life in Poetry

Artist, writer, and author Ari Yarmish discussed his unique approach to poetry and spirituality in an interview for the "Zman Omanuteynu" program. Yarmish, author of the book "Reshimu," explained his concept of "torot" (teachings) rather than poems or essays, drawing parallels to Hasidic teachings and the works of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov. He described these "torot" as lyrical and poetic expressions stemming from deep study and existential experiences.

Yarmish illustrated his fusion of the sacred and the mundane with an excerpt from his book, "The Laws of the Morning." This piece, written in the style of Jewish legal texts and Kabbalistic terminology, humorously describes the chaotic morning routine with a young child, including the need for hot chocolate and understanding tantrums. He calls this the "accident in the brain," a collision between spiritual concepts and everyday realities like marshmallows.

His work also delves into complex Kabbalistic concepts, such as the teachings of Rabbi Isaac Luria (the Ari), applying them to human psychology and relationships. In "Rachel, Leah, and the Secret of the Flower," he uses these figures to explore themes of eternal youth versus hidden depth and the nature of love within marriage and routine.

Yarmish shared his personal journey, growing up feeling like an outsider in both Israel and the United States, which he believes fostered his dualistic language. A pivotal moment was encountering Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook's "Orot" at age 18, which inspired him to express spiritual ideas in a relatable way. His teacher, Rabbi Roi Hinebel, encouraged him to publish his writings.

Regarding the rise of religious poetry, Yarmish suggested that individuals deeply immersed in textual study, like those in yeshivas, are well-prepared for layered poetry. He sees poetry as an outlet for the emotional and spiritual needs often suppressed in favor of intellectual study within the yeshiva system, allowing the soul to express itself.